Westcliff’s Student Life Ensures a Fall to Remember
This fall, Westcliff University’s Student Life embraced the season with a lineup of events that celebrated California’s natural beauty, city offerings, and all things “spooky.” The events are a welcomed break from classes that allows students from different cultures and backgrounds an opportunity to explore settings that they otherwise would not experience in their home countries. From pumpkin patches to beach bonfires, each gathering offered students a chance to unwind, experience much of what Southern California has to offer, and have plenty of fun. Here’s a look back at these memorable moments, each with a unique flavor.
Making a Splash at the Long Beach Aquarium
The season kicked off with an experiential trip to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, where staff and more than 20 students from India, Nepal, and Nigeria explored the aquarium’s remarkable marine life. Some students voiced that they underestimated the amount of marine life they’d see and just how big the aquarium actually is. Stingrays, jellyfish, and vibrant schools of fish caught the eyes of many, but the real stars of the day were the friendly parakeets! Westcliff students and staff were able to stretch their arms out and feed these colorful birds, making it a spontaneous and immersive experience for everyone.
The hands-on experience didn’t stop there. Attendees got up close and personal with stingrays and other marine life as touch tanks allowed them to reach their arms inside and get a true sense of what these incredible creatures feel like.
The Extraordinary Environment of Oktoberfest
Students got to experience the lively atmosphere of Oktoberfest in Huntington Beach, giving them and the staff a taste of Bavaria right here in Southern California. Organized by Student Life and the Acclimation Club, a Westcliff University club dedicated to providing valuable resources and support to help students navigate the challenges of adjusting to a new academic and cultural environment, this festive afternoon was filled with traditional German fare like bratwurst and pretzels, all enjoyed under clear, sunny skies, and an environment packed with non-stop energy and fun. For many of the students attending it was their first taste of authentic German food and culture. One of the students in attendance, who started his MBA at Westcliff this fall, remarked how helpful Student Life events have been in acclimating to his new home in the U.S. and how he has already met some great friends through these opportunities.
With attendees from across the globe—India, Nigeria, Vietnam, and beyond—the event truly felt like an international celebration of community. Everyone relished the food, enjoyed lively German tunes, and got to embrace this festive and welcoming atmosphere.
Packin’ Smores for the Bonfire
Let’s be honest: you can’t plan a lineup of California events without a beach trip. Student Life made sure students got to experience a quintessential Orange County evening by hosting a cozy beach bonfire at Corona Del Mar—a favorite gathering that’s become a quarterly tradition. The evening kicked off with an impromptu game of beach football, bringing everyone together before the sunset. As the sky turned shades of orange and pink, hot dogs were roasted over the fire, followed by marshmallows and all the fixings for s’mores. This event always draws students in for a relaxed night of laughter, conversation, and classic California vibes.
Amongst the many students in attendance was a group of three German exchange students spending the semester learning at Westcliff as they pursue their respective master’s degrees. Only being in their second month living in the States, they each remarked on the beauty of Southern California and how consistently nice the weather is. One student went as far as saying, “If I could live anywhere in the world, it would probably be here.” The atmosphere was lively and there was a true sense of togetherness, as other groups of friends were gathered around nearby fire pits, and the sounds of music and the ocean set the tone of the evening.
Get In: We’re Going to a Pumpkin Patch
Just a day after the beach bonfire, Student Life mixed it up and incorporated a trip to an Irvine pumpkin patch, where almost a dozen students embraced the autumn spirit. The group arrived at the pumpkin farm to find sprawling patches filled with photo-worthy pumpkins, and attractions perfect for the season like a haunted house and even a classic hayride. Many students hand-picked pumpkins to take home for carving, and for most, it was their first time experiencing a pumpkin patch. Once everyone had a chance to relax, Student Life provided lunch and the group had a chance to take in this unforgettable fall experience.
When in Los Angeles
As part of a season filled with memorable events, Student Life led more than 20 students on their second annual “LA Day,” beginning at the iconic Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and concluding at the vibrant Santa Monica Pier. This day-long tour offered a taste of LA’s most celebrated landmarks. At Griffith Observatory, students took in sweeping views of the city and explored its rich scientific history, with many peering through the famous public telescope for a closer look at the stars. Finally, arriving at the Santa Monica Pier, everyone experienced the quintessential California beach scene with its lively atmosphere and stunning ocean views.
“One of the most effective ways to build community is through shared experiences,” said Tayler Henslick, Associate Director of Student Life and organizer of the event. “Providing students with an opportunity to explore a city with their peers opens the door for more in-depth conversations and making memories with their fellow Warriors.”
For many international students, it was a chance to explore the LA they’d only seen on screen, making memories at each stop along the way. With city landmarks and shared moments at every turn, the trip captured the energy and allure of California’s most famous city.
Student Life Going Forward
As we move beyond the fall season, these events are a testament to the vibrant community we share at Westcliff University. Thanks to the dedication and creativity of our Student Life team, each gathering—from beach bonfires to pumpkin patch visits—has brought students and staff closer, fostering connections that make our campus culture feel like home. With festive events like the Balboa Lights and OC Winter Fest coming up in December, we’re excited for the new moments and memories Student Life will help create, making Westcliff an inspiring place to learn, connect, and grow together.
